Fall 2024 Update
It’s been an exciting start to the year at the Mini School, filled with new faces, outdoor adventures, creative projects, and, of course, plenty of school spirit! Here’s what we’ve been up to in September and October:
We have a new head teacher!
We're thrilled to welcome Ms. Ismaguilova (Ms. I) to the Mini School family! Her passion for education, student engagement, and fostering a sense of community has already made a big impact, and we can't wait to see where she takes us this year. She has been coordinating many school events along with the Mini Student Council (affectionately named Mini StuCo), and she has been working with many students. She also had a wonderful and captivating speech at the Mini Information Night.
Welcoming Our New Mini 8s + 2 New Mini 9s
Big smiles and lots of excitement as we welcome the Mini 8s to the school! They're settling in beautifully, joining our fantastic group of returning students. We also have two amazing new Mini 9s — Haydar and Nolan — who have been steadily transitioning into the mini school schedule. It’s always great to see fresh faces and new friendships forming.
PW Mini students waiting at the Departure Bay Ferry Terminal after four days of memories at Strathcona 2024.
Strathcona Adventure: 4 Nights of Outdoor Fun
The highlight of September was the unforgettable 4-night trip to Strathcona on Vancouver Island. Our students had a blast exploring the great outdoors, hiking, kayaking, and embracing the beauty of nature. There were bonfires, laughter, and plenty of memories made! Strathcona was a perfect mix of adventure, teamwork, and self-discovery. Students got to meet other students in other grades forming inter-grade bonding, fostering a stronger community within the mini. The grade twelves had a chance to introduce the new grade eights to the rest of the mini school at the annual Grade 8 introductions.
Mini Student Council election day at PW Mini — before all the action of entry music and speeches from our grade 12 Executive Candidates.
Poinsettia Fundraiser: Let’s Make It Bloom!
We’re also gearing up for our annual Poinsettia Fundraiser. Each student is working hard to sell 23 poinsettias to help fundraise for Mini School events, trips, and projects. It’s a great way to contribute to the community while helping our school thrive. Plus, who doesn’t love the festive vibes of those bright red flowers? The poinsettias will help fund our trips to Manning Park and helping with buying school supplies and gifts. Our organizers Selena and Rebecca have been working to get the interest of all students, encouraging them to sell all their poinsettias!
Student Council Election: New Leaders Elected!
A big shout-out to our newly elected Student Council members! After an energetic campaign season, we now have a fresh batch of student leaders ready to represent the Mini School. We can’t wait to see the initiatives and ideas they’ll bring to the table. Stay tuned for exciting things to come from our Student Council! Our president and vice-president, Euan and Connor, have been working hard to organize inter-grade activities and have been collaborating with other grade representatives to create many activities such as our buddy groups. Jerry and Kayla, our secretary and treasurer, have also been working alongside the council, creating exciting new activities and competitions, fueling our mini spirit! We are excited for all the upcoming amazing activities organized by our student council!
Mini StuCo organized pumpkin-carving. Which pumpkin would you vote for?
Field Trips: Writers Fest and Law Courts
Learning extends far beyond the classroom! In October, students had the opportunity to attend the Vancouver Writers Fest with Ms. Duy, where they learned from authors and participated in writing workshops. Meanwhile, our Mini 10s and 11s got a behind-the-scenes look at the legal system during their field trip to the Law Courts with Mr. Lee. Both trips were engaging, thought-provoking, and full of inspiration!
Halloween Spirit Week: Spooky Fun and Creative Costumes
Mini School’s Halloween Spirit Week was a smash hit! From wacky costume days to spooky-themed activities, everyone brought their A-game in the spirit of fun. Whether you were a witch, a wizard, or a cat from outer space, it was all about embracing creativity and having a blast together. Don’t forget the legendary pumpkin carving contest—those creations were *next-level*! We had many community competitions, including: Apple Bobbing and a Pumpkin Pie eating contest! Our Mini Halloween Dance was also a blast! Many students attended, having a great time with the friends, classmates, and other peers within the Mini.
Cinematheque: Lights, Camera, Action!
This October also marked the launch of our Cinematheque program. Our Grade 8s and 10s are diving into the world of film, learning the ropes of creating their own mini-movies. From brainstorming scripts to filming on location, the students are getting a hands-on crash course in storytelling and filmmaking. The 8’s will be creating a creative film, while the 10’s will be working on a documentary style film. We’re excited to see the final products!
Science Fair: The Exploration Begins!
And last but certainly not least, the Science Fair is officially underway for our Grade 8 and 9 students. They're putting their scientific minds to work, conducting experiments, and designing projects that will dazzle and educate. We can’t wait to see the results of all their hard work!
We’ve had a jam-packed couple of months, and we’re only getting started! There’s so much more ahead for the Mini School, and we’re looking forward to all the new adventures, learning experiences, and community-building moments that make this place so special.
Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, roll on Mini!
— Osmond & Michael